Polarization Structures of Topological Domains in Multiferroic Hexagonal Manganites

Abstract

Topologically protected domains, composed of mutually coupled ferroelectric, (anti)ferromagnetic, and antiphase domains, are widespread in hexagonal manganites. We have applied the extended Howie‐Whelan equations in hexagonal systems and simulated the electron‐diffraction intensities of four kinds of representative hexagonal manganites. Thereby, the polarization directions of domains and charging status of domain walls can be easily determined by electron‐diffraction contrast method, which is succinct and reliable. Here, we present a systematic investigation about the polarization structures and pave the way for further study about the properties of domains by transmission electron microscopy. Besides, the dynamic behavior of domains merely under transmission electron beam irradiation was firstly shown as well.